One Pot Manicotti Pasta Bake Recipe

Cooking Directions

• STEP 1.In a large pot, cook the manicotti pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
• STEP 2.While the pasta is cooking, prepare the filling by combining ricotta cheese, spinach, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
• STEP 3.Drain the cooked pasta and rinse with cold water to prevent sticking.
• STEP 4.Using a piping bag or a ziplock bag with the corner snipped off, fill each manicotti tube with the ricotta mixture.
• STEP 5.Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of the pot.
• STEP 6.Arrange the stuffed manicotti tubes in a single layer on top of the sauce.
• STEP 7.Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the manicotti, making sure they are fully covered.
• STEP 8.Cover the pot and cook on low heat for about 20 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and the filling is heated through.
• STEP 9.Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top of the cooked manicotti.
• STEP 10.Cover the pot again and let it sit for a few minutes until the cheese melts.
• STEP 11.Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve hot.

Cooking Tips

• Be careful not to overcook the manicotti pasta, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
• If you don't have a piping bag, you can use a spoon to fill the manicotti tubes.
• Feel free to add other ingredients to the filling, such as cooked ground meat or saut茅ed mushrooms, for extra flavor.
• You can make this dish ahead of time and refrigerate it before baking. Just increase the baking time by 10-15 minutes.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Storage and Serving

• This One Pot Manicotti Pasta Bake is best served fresh and hot.
• Garnish with fresh basil leaves for added freshness and flavor.
• Serve with a side salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.
• Leftovers can be reheated in the oven or microwave.
• Enjoy!